Issue - meetings

    To receive a report from the Chief Executive.

Cllr Laura Mayes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Education, and Skills, presented a report on the proposal to close Shalbourne Church of England Primary School.

It was explained that pupil numbers had dropped to such a degree that retaining the school at Shalbourne was not viable. All necessary consultation had been undertaken and it was confirmed all remaining children had been found alternative schooling.

Cllr Gordon King noted the impact that closing a local school could have on a community, but accepted the numbers in this case left no alternative.

The Leader commented on trying to work through the Local Plan to develop more housing in appropriate fashion in villages to ensure longer term viability for communities.

At the conclusion of discussion, it was then,

Resolved:

That Cabinet approve the proposal to close (without modification) Shalbourne Church of England Primary School with effect from 30 April 2024.

Reason

With pupil numbers now so low, with slim prospects of recovery, Shalbourne Church of England Primary School is both financially and academically vulnerable, therefore closure is considered the only viable option.